Game Preview: Rams Open Preseason in Cleveland

The St. Louis Rams will open their 2013 preseason schedule on Thursday, Aug. 8 as they travel to Cleveland to face the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium.

Thursday’s game marks the third time in four years that the Rams have visited Cleveland. St. Louis won the last meeting between the two teams, a 13-12 contest on Nov. 13, 2012. The Rams also won a 2010 preseason contest in Cleveland. The Rams and Browns have previously met 27 times in the preseason, the last coming in Cleveland in 2010. St. Louis holds a 14-12-1 advantage in the preseason series.

St. Louis was one of the NFL’s most improved teams in 2012, and the Rams look to make another step forward in Head Coach Jeff Fisher’s second season with the club. A year ago, the Rams tied for the league lead with 52 sacks. St. Louis’ young offense will get a boost in 2013 by newcomers like rookie WR Tavon Austin as well as veteran free agents TE Jared Cook and T Jake Long.